Bayer Leverkusen winger Karim Bellarabi could cause a bidding war in the summer transfer window as early reports indicate that close to six Premier League clubs are monitoring the 24-year old.
According to reports, the Germany international was being watched by Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester City and Newcastle United scouts in his side’s 2-0 win over Zenit in Wednesday’s Champions League encounter.
Bellarabi has been in impressive form this season after scoring 4 goals and assisting another 4 in his 8 Bundesliga appearances so far. His first goal came against Borussia Dortmund and was the fastest Bundesliga goal ever recorded (inside 9 seconds). Bellarabi has been a key player in new Leverkusen manager Roger Schmidt’s attacking policy of pressing from high up the pitch. His work rate coupled with his footballing skills are an asset to have in any team.
Bellarabi can play anywhere up front, but his natural position is that of a right winger. His versatility is another plus point to have in the Premier League. He made his national team debut recently in Germany’s 2-0 loss to Poland and played the full game.
At the moment, nothing can be deduced on which club is favourite to land the winger as they just started scouting him. Another key factor is Bellarabi’s interest in moving abroad. He recently nailed down a starting spot in the Leverkusen team after the decided to sell Sidney Sam in the summer. Bellarabi contracted until 206 and will consider his options at the end of the season if he has any offers in front of him.
He is the cheaper alternative to Marco Reus in some ways. Judging by Bayer Leverkusen’s style of play, Bellarabi will find it easy to play with Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City. However, one doubts whether he’ll move to Manchester as there is too much of attacking talent in both United and City’s squads.